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Soil Science Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Field Technician

Ambler, AK · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Collect a ~800 -gram soil sample using hand shovel or auger soil from a depth of 20 to 100 cm ... Good oral, writing, mathematical and scientific skills * Knowledge of and ability to carry out safe ...

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Collect a ~800 -gram soil sample using hand shovel or auger soil from a depth of 20 to 100 cm ... Good oral, writing, mathematical and scientific skills * Knowledge of and ability to carry out safe ...

Lab Technician (Mid-Level)

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Perform geotechnical laboratory testing on soil, rock, asphalt, and concrete. * Operate a nuclear densometer. * Use and maintain scientific testing equipment. * Process test data using computer ...

Lab Technician (Mid-Level)

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Perform geotechnical laboratory testing on soil, rock, asphalt, and concrete. * Operate a nuclear densometer. * Use and maintain scientific testing equipment. * Process test data using computer ...

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Showing results 1-20

Soil Science information

See Alaska salary details

$33.4K

$51.9K

$104.5K

How much do soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil science in Alaska is $51,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,400.00 and $61,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Soil Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Soil Scientist, you need a solid background in soil chemistry, biology, and environmental science, usually supported by a degree in soil science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, GIS mapping software, and soil sampling equipment is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help Soil Scientists interpret data and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate research, effective land management, and informed decision-making in agriculture or environmental conservation.

What does a soil scientist do?

A soil scientist studies soil properties, composition, and health to understand its suitability for agriculture, construction, and environmental management. They analyze soil samples, use laboratory tools, and often work outdoors to assess soil quality and recommend sustainable practices.

What is the difference between Soil Science vs Agronomist?

AspectSoil ScienceAgronomist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Soil Science, certifications in soil analysisBachelor's or Master's in Agronomy, certifications in crop management
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling, research facilitiesFarms, research stations, consulting settings
Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, soil testing labsFarming operations, agricultural companies, consulting firms

Soil Science focuses on understanding soil properties, classification, and health, often involving research and laboratory work. Agronomists apply this knowledge to improve crop production and advise farmers. While both roles require similar credentials and may work in related environments, Soil Scientists tend to focus more on soil analysis and conservation, whereas Agronomists emphasize crop management and sustainable farming practices.

How much does a soil scientist get paid?

The average salary for a soil scientist is around $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals or those with advanced certifications can earn higher salaries. Soil scientists often work in environmental consulting, research, or government agencies, utilizing skills in field sampling and laboratory analysis.

What careers involve soil science?

Careers involving soil science include soil scientist, agronomist, environmental consultant, land use planner, and conservation scientist. These roles typically require knowledge of soil properties, environmental regulations, and often involve fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation.

What can I do with soil science?

Soil science professionals analyze soil properties, fertility, and health to support agriculture, environmental management, and land use planning. They may work in research, consulting, government agencies, or environmental organizations, often using tools like GIS and soil testing equipment. Certification and knowledge of ecology and chemistry can enhance career opportunities.

What are some common challenges soil scientists face when conducting fieldwork, and how can they prepare for them?

Soil scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to sampling sites during fieldwork. Preparation is key—this includes reviewing site conditions in advance, ensuring proper equipment is packed, and developing contingency plans for weather disruptions. Collaborating with local landowners or agencies can also help overcome access issues, while thorough pre-field planning minimizes risks and ensures data collection is efficient and accurate.

What is soil science?

Soil science is the study of soil as a natural resource, including its formation, classification, mapping, physical and chemical properties, and its role in supporting plant growth. Soil scientists analyze how soils interact with living organisms, water, and the atmosphere to better understand agricultural productivity, environmental quality, and land management. This field is crucial for sustainable farming, environmental conservation, and land use planning.
What job categories do people searching Soil Science jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Science jobs in Alaska are:
Infographic showing various Soil Science job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,890 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

$84K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

This position is located in a USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Field Office in Juneau, Alaska. You will serve as the District Conservationist for the Juneau Field Office, responsible for the overall management and supervision of federal employees, working in concert with Landowners and Partners to develop, maintain and implement conservation plans using approved conservation planning practices.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. If education is required or being used to qualify, you must submit a copy of your transcripts.
Basic Requirement/Education: GS-0457: Degree: Successful completion of a Soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering. The study must have included 30 semester hours in a natural resource or agricultural field, including at least 12 semester hours in a combination of soils and crops or plant science. Of the 12 semester hours, a minimum of 3 semester hours must have been in soils and 3 semester hours in crops or plant science.
Transcripts are required at time of submission.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement, you must also possess experience and/or directly related education listed below.
Specialized Experience Requirement
Specialized Experience - GS-11: To qualify for the GS-11 level, you must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level or higher in Federal service, or comparable experience not gained through Federal service. The experience requires the knowledge of the principles and theories of soil and water conservation and related sciences such as biology, agronomy, and forestry, in identifying conservation related problems. Examples include:
  • Providing technical guidance and assistance to groups and individuals on topics such as soil interpretations, erosion control measures, pest and invasive species control, water quality improvements, livestock management, wildlife habitat, and forest management.
  • Preparing conservation or resource management plans and providing financial or implementation assistance.
  • Communicating and sharing general information and explaining issues related to natural resource conservation, problems, and solutions to landowners, residents, and land managers. OR
Education at the GS-11 grade level: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position, such as: soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering. OR
Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience as listed above. A combination of graduate-level education and experience, as described above, may be used to qualify for this position. This combination must have equipped you with the necessary knowledge and/or experience to successfully perform the duties of this position. Combinations of experience and education must total at least 100% as outlined in OPM Qualifications policy.
Specialize Experience GS-12: To qualify for the GS-12, you must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service, or comparable experience not gained through federal service. The experience requires the knowledge of the principles and theories of soil and water conservation and related sciences such as biology, agronomy, and forestry, in identifying conservation related problems. Examples include:
  • Analyzing workloads, developing and implementing annual work or business plans, and establishing goals within the constraints of funding and staff availability.
  • Directing technical guidance and assistance to groups and individuals on topics such as soil interpretations, erosion control measures, pest and invasive species control, water quality improvements, livestock management, wildlife habitat, and forest management.
  • Preparing complex conservation or resource management plans and providing financial or implementation assistance.
  • Communicating and sharing technical information and explaining issues related to natural resource conservation, problems, and solutions to landowners, residents, and land managers.
  • Implementing and/or managing natural resources programs and practices which involve exercising initiative and resourcefulness.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Time-in-Grade Requirement: If you are a current federal employee in the General Schedule (GS) pay plan and applying for a promotion opportunity, you must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirements of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled. You must meet this requirement by the closing date of this announcement.
Promotion Potential: If you are selected for a position with further promotion potential, you will be placed under a career development plan, and may be non-competitively promoted if you successfully complete the requirements and if recommended by management. However, promotion is neither implied nor guaranteed.Education:The is no substitution at the GS-12 grade level.
College Transcript:
If qualifying based on education, you must submit a copy of your college transcript with course number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), course title, number of credit hours, and grade earned. If a relevant course is not clearly qualifying (e.g., special topic, seminar, research, thesis, obscure or misleading course title, etc.), please submit an official course syllabi and/or detailed course description from the university/college to ensure proper evaluation.
Your education must have been successfully obtained from an accredited school, college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to be credited toward qualifications. You may verify accreditation by visiting the U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs website. We will verify your education accordingly.
Foreign Education: You must submit verification that education completed in a foreign institution, was recognized by an accreditation body accepted by the U.S. Department of Education. You must include a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript. There are private organizations that specialize in this evaluation and a fee is normally associated with this service. For a list of private organizations that evaluate education, visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) website. Your transcripts must be in English or include an English translation.
You may submit an unofficial copy of your transcript at the initial phase of the application process. However, if selected, you will be required to submit official transcripts prior to entering on duty. Please refer to the "How to Apply" section for instructions on submitting transcripts.Employment Type: OTHER